The Disturbing Truth Behind WWE's FOX TV Deal
Brock Lesnar showed up to challenge Kofi Kingston on this week's SmackDown. He'll be WWE Champion by the end of the 4 October FOX debut show.
Say what you will about 'The Beast Incarnate' as a performer, but he's one of the few guaranteed draws left in the company. Expect more to follow. WWE will likely load SmackDown with as much star power as possible in the upcoming Draft because coasting on declining ratings is no longer an option, meaning the Becky Lynchs and Ronda Rouseys of the world could soon become blue brand exclusives.
TV's recent upturn in quality is encouraging, too. While SmackDown hasn't improved to Raw's extent, the appointment of Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman as Executive Directors has coincided with a noticeable increase in positive reviews. If a good product is the key to a stronger viewership, it's safe to say both shows are on the right track, though this will need to continue.
Let's hope it all falls into place, as SmackDown has largely been a strong, well-booked show for the past few years. This hasn't yet translated to improved ratings, but WWE have the FOX machine behind them now. Their position has strengthened. Now, it's time to build a sturdier structure on these stable foundations: their entire business strategy depends on it.
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